Russia blames NATO for prolonging war in Ukraine; targets member countries for arms supply

In midst of never-ending battle between Ukraine and Russia, with two countries blaming each or for prolonging conflict, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova blamed NATO members for sending armaments to Ukraine in her weekly briefing on Wednesday.

According to Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova, member countries of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) are doing everything y can to prolong armed situation in Ukraine. Russia's Zakharova also slammed NATO countries for increasing military equipment, weaponry, and ammunition supplies to Ukraine, urging Kyiv to continue its "aggression" against Donbas, according to ANI.

'Ukraine attracted 7000 foreign mercenaries from 63 countries'

Maria Zakharova went on to say that since beginning of Russia's special military operation in neighbouring Ukraine, country has attracted 7,000 foreign mercenaries from 63 countries, with United States being one of main sources. “se deeds go against NATO countries’ words that hostilities in Ukraine should end as soon as possible,” she ded.

Russia warns Finland & Sweden about ir plans to join NATO

Meanwhile, Russia's Federation warned Finland and Sweden on Wednesday that if y go forward with ir ambitions to join North Atlantic Treaty Organization, y will face terrible consequences (NATO). Russian Foreign Ministry's spokesperson, Maria Zakharova, issued latest warning as support for NATO membership grows in both countries. Sweden's membership in military alliance currently has support of 57 percent of people, up from 51 percent in March, according to a poll done by Demoscope Institute.

'Decision to join NATO will not Be affected by Russian threat' 

In reaction to Russian rhetoric regarding Finland's probable NATO membership application, Finland recently indicated that re is no need to be alarmed by Moscow's threats. At a news conference, Finnish Foreign Minister Pekka Haavisto stated that Russia's attitude on Finland and Sweden joining NATO is "unsurprising," that ir reaction is "expected," and that ir reaction is "known knowledge."

Haavisto's comments came a day after Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova warned two neutral Nordic countries that joining intergovernmental military grouping would have "serious consequences."

(With ANI inputs)